Review: Casio G-Shock GS-1100-1A Watch Is Rough And Tumble, Impossible To Program

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Review: Casio G-Shock GS-1100-1A Watch Is Rough And Tumble, Impossible To Program

Photo By Terrence Russell

We don't care what Casio says — an atomic, radio-calibrated, solar powered timepiece with 5 motors should shoot laser beams. But until they release a timepiece that can do that, we're happy making due with the GIEZ GS-1100. The hulking update to Casio's durable G-Shock line brings all the knuckle-busting features we've grown to love — shockproofing, waterproofing (up to 200 meters), and battery ditching solar power. However, unlike previous G-Shocks, the GIEZ hides martini-shaking sophistication under its tough exterior. With the press of a couple buttons it can wind itself to local time via over-the-air radio frequencies. But don't get your hopes up, Mr. Bond — all this cutting-edge sweetness is easily soured with an accidental button press. When we unintentionally calibrated it for London time, it took the better part of 3 minutes to cycle back through the timepiece's 27 pre-programmed cities. The shotgun blast of information displayed on its face only added to the confusion during some of the more advanced maneuvers like switching from "stopwatch" to "'alarm clock." A good 5 minutes with the manual remedied all this, but be forewarned — the GIEZ isn't designed for the uninitiated man of mystery. —Terrence Russell ____WIRED Secret agent looks, versatility and durability. Up to 5 months of operation off of one solar charge. Automatically syncs to atomic time up to 6 times a day. Sturdy band ensures stable placement without painfully stripping wrist hair. Auto calendar tracks date until 2099 or the Apocalypse — whichever comes first.__TIRED__ Requires a good 10 minutes of setup out of box. Manual winding is a complicated nightmare. Low battery means losing stopwatch and alarm features. Over-the-air syncing can take up to 5 minutes. Minimalist 4-button control scheme sucks for advanced functions. Watch hands glow dimly in complete darkness.